BMRCL to upgrade depots to support expanding Metro network in Bengaluru

In preparation for Bengaluru’s expanding Namma Metro network, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is upgrading its existing train depots to accommodate additional rakes, especially for the Purple and Green Lines, which are set to receive 21 new trains in the coming months.

Currently, the Metro train operations are supported by depots located at Peenya (for the Green Line), Kadugodi-Whitefield (for the Purple Line), and Baiyappanahalli. A new depot has also been constructed at Hebbagodi to serve the upcoming Yellow Line between R.V. Road and Bommasandra.

Series of enhancements

According to BMRCL officials, the Peenya depot is undergoing a series of upgrades to support the additional train sets. These enhancements include the construction of extra platforms, a jack pit for three-car coaches, and other essential infrastructure. “The total cost for these works is estimated at ₹1.94 crore. These improvements are vital for the efficient stabling and maintenance of trains, thereby ensuring smooth operations across the metro network,” an official said.

The newly-constructed Hebbagodi depot to serve the upcoming Yellow Line between R.V. Road and Bommasandra.
| Photo Credit:
MURALI KUMAR K

Baiyappanahalli depot redesigned

Meanwhile, major redevelopment work has already been completed at the Baiyappanahalli depot, at a cost of ₹249.19 crore. This upgraded facility will be the first in the BMRCL system to feature a two-level structure. The redesigned depot is strategically positioned to support 16 trains operating on the Outer Ring Road stretch (Phase 2A) and 21 trains on the Airport Line (Phase 2B), which run in opposite directions. Baiyappanahalli sits in the middle of both corridors and is expected to play a key role in managing operations until the new Shettigere depot near the airport becomes operational.

“Presently, the Baiyappanahalli depot services the 43.49-kilometre-long Purple Line connecting Challaghatta to Whitefield. However, once the remodeling is complete, the responsibility for Purple Line maintenance will be divided between the Kadugodi and Challaghatta depots, as the upgraded Baiyappanahalli depot begins handling Airport Line operations,” the official added.

At a cost of ₹249.19 crore, the upgraded depot facility at Baiyappanahalli will be the first in the BMRCL system to feature a two-level structure. 
| Photo Credit:
MURALI KUMAR K

Five new depots

In addition to these developments, five new depots are under construction to support the expanding metro network. These include Shettigere (Airport Line), Kothanur (Pink Line from Nagawara to Kalena Agrahara), Anjanapura (Green Line extension), Challaghatta (Purple Line extension), and Hebbagodi (Yellow Line).